Phenibut

Phenibut, known by the brand names Anvifen, Fenibut, and Noofen, among others, is a pharmaceutical agent with anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties. It functions as a central nervous system depressant and is used to manage a spectrum of conditions including anxiety, insomnia, and certain other neuropsychiatric disorders.<ref>,

 Phenibut Addiction in a Patient with Substance Use Disorder, 
 Cureus, 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Full text,
 Accessed on: 2023-05-18.</ref>

Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action

Phenibut primarily exerts its effects by modulating the GABA receptor, particularly the GABA-B subtype. GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the human nervous system, and substances that enhance GABA's activity tend to produce calming, sedative effects.<ref>,

 Phenibut (β-Phenyl-GABA): A Tranquilizer and Nootropic Drug, 
 CNS Drug Reviews, 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Full text,
 Accessed on: 2023-05-18.</ref>

Therapeutic Uses

Phenibut is primarily used to treat anxiety and insomnia, but it also has utility in the management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome, vestibular disorders, and other conditions. It is typically administered orally in a tablet form, although it can be given intravenously under certain circumstances.<ref>,

 Phenibut withdrawal management in the setting of concomitant kratom and alcohol dependence, 
 Critical Care, 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Full text,
 Accessed on: 2023-05-18.</ref>

Side Effects and Cautions

Like all medications, Phenibut has potential side effects, including sedation, nausea, irritability, and, in some cases, withdrawal symptoms upon abrupt discontinuation. It should be used with caution, particularly in individuals with a history of substance use disorders, as it has the potential for misuse and dependence.<ref>,

 Phenibut: A Tranquilizer and Nootropic Drug with Abuse Potential, 
 Journal of Addiction Medicine, 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Full text,
 Accessed on: 2023-05-18.</ref>

See Also

• GABA receptor
• Anxiolytic
• Neurotransmitter

References

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Phenibut

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  Skeletal formula of Phenibut
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  Ball-and-stick model of Phenibut
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  Phenibut and its analogues
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  Phenibut from Russia